Ethnic Minorities into Leadership London

Thursday 11th November 2026
in partnership with the FDA and the Civil Service Race Forum

The annual Ethnic Minorities into Leadership conference has established itself as the key event for anyone committed to enhancing the capabilities and leadership opportunities of Ethnic Minority civil servants. The conference and its speakers will examine how Ethnic Minority individuals, at any grade, can continue to overcome barriers, build networks and become the leaders they aspire to be.

Drawing on the strengths of previous events, this year’s conference centres on driving professional development and change. It offers hands-on advice, practical steps and coaching on how to adapt to new environments, expand your networks, make the most of opportunities and further your career in times of change.

Attendees will hear from inspirational speakers of all grades and levels, from within and outside the Civil Service, and learn valuable strategies for managing the challenges of modern leadership while helping the Civil Service keep momentum in recruiting, retaining and rewarding Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic leaders.

The Personal Advancement Power Hour

Following its successful launch at Women into Leadership, the Personal Advancement Power Hour comes to Ethnic Minorities into Leadership. This dedicated part of the programme focuses on you and your next step. During the Power Hour you can:

• Book a one-to-one mentoring or CV review session with an experienced professional
• Connect with Civil Service staff networks, including the Civil Service Race Forum, and find the communities that can support your progression
• Take part in Active Reflection, turning the day’s learning into practical actions you can take back to your role

This event is CPD-certified and will contribute to your professional development.

Why attend?

• Examine the barriers and enablers affecting your progression
• Receive hands-on advice and coaching for your professional development
• Make the Power Hour count with one-to-one support, network connections and guided reflection
• Gain a deeper understanding of the skills, qualities and competencies required to be a successful leader
• Hear from senior Ethnic Minority leaders on how to succeed
• Network with peers and counterparts from across the public sector who are also looking to further their careers
• Hear from inspirational speakers of all grades and levels from across the public and private sectors

08:30

Registration  

09:15

Chair’s Welcome and Introduction

Justin Placide, Head of Net Zero Ministerial Briefing and Fiscal Events at Department for Energy, Security & Net Zero

09:25

Opening address 

Progression Without Compromise: Strong leadership in a shifting landscape

10:00

Transition to breakout sessions 

10:10

Breakout session A

Career Progression Toolkit: Practical Strategies for Career Advancement
 

10:10

Breakout session B

Difficult Conversations Done Well 

Cath Baxter, Professional Voice and Public Speaking Consultant & former Head of Voice, Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts

10:10

Breakout session C

Unlocking Your Next Level: The Neural Patterns Behind Senior Leaders Breakthroughs 

Saj Zaman-Elahi, CEO & Founder, LeadHERship Academy 

11:10

Networking and refreshments 

11:40

Morning Plenary Address 

Commanding the Room: Personal Brand as Leadership Currency

12:15

Transition to breakout sessions

12:25

Breakout session D

Preparing for your next role: Are you ready for a Promotion?   

Richard Hillsdon, Civil Service Selection Consultant

12:25

Breakout session E

Shaping Culturally Intelligent Workplaces

12:25

Breakout session F

Practical AI Skills for Everyday Leadership 

13:15

Lunch  

14:00

Personal Advancement Power Hour 

Make the most of your conference in one focused hour 

• Get expert feedback: Book a 10-minute 1-1 mentoring session or CV review from experienced professionals 
• Connect with your community: Discover affinity networks with peer-led support for civil servants with shared backgrounds, through the Civil Service Networks 
• Reflect and strengthen: Engage with guided reflection activities to distil key insights, identify development priorities, and ground the days learnings in your personal unique context 

15:00

Fireside Discussion 

Rising Together: Building Collective Success 

David Francis, CEO at Stonepillow, ex-civil servant

Ritika Wadhwa, CEO & Founder, Prabhaav Global

Professor Arundi Mahendran, Founding Director, SHAPE Institute for Health, and Former Director of the Medical School, Queen Mary University of London; Honorary Consultant Transplant Surgeon, The Royal London Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust

15:55

Chair's Transition Remarks

Justin Placide, Head of Net Zero Ministerial Briefing and Fiscal Events at Department for Energy, Security & Net Zero

16:00

Ethnic Minority into Leadership Awards Ceremony

17:00

Networking and drinks reception